Newcastle pair up for Premier League awards for February

A pair of the key contributors to the turnaround in fortunes enjoyed by Newcastle United of late have today seen their efforts recognised.

The month of February, of course, proved an altogether fruitful one for Eddie Howe's troops.

This came as the Magpies, on the back of a big-money winter spending spree courtesy of the club's wealthy new owners, finally kicked into gear after a frankly shocking opening half to the campaign.

All told, Newcastle racked up three wins and a draw over the course of the month, guiding them up to 14th in the Premier League table in the process.

And now, as alluded to above, such stellar efforts have seen two members of the Tyneside outfit's ranks deservedly recognised.

First up comes wide-man Ryan Fraser, who, so recently the subject of widespread ire on the part of the Newcastle faithful, has secured a nomination for Premier League Player of the Month:

And the Scot is joined in taking his place on the shortlist for a February award by manager Eddie Howe, whose work on the touchline at St. James' Park sees the former Bournemouth tactician up for the Premier League Manager of the Month prize:

Seagulls test

Turning attentions back towards the pitch, Howe and Fraser alike will of course be hopeful of seeing Newcastle's upturn in form continue through the coming weekend.

This comes with the Magpies set to return to Premier League action, in a meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James' Park.

Saturday's hosts could not be set to take on the Seagulls at a more ideal time, with Graham Potter's men currently in the midst of an alarming stretch of form of their own, fresh off the back of a trio of successive defeats without a single goal to show for their efforts.

Newcastle chief Amanda Staveley provides take on Abramovich-Chelsea situation: ‘Not particularly fair’

Newcastle United vs Brighton & Hove Albion betting tips: Premier League preview, predictions & odds